Templeton CSD general manager resigns amid 'attacks'

In an unexpected move on the night new directors were sworn in to the Templeton Community Services District Board, the district’s general manager sent a letter announcing his resignation.

Jeff Hodge, who’s been involved in a very public ongoing dispute with outspoken board member Greg O’Sullivan, sent a resignation letter to the board at its Dec. 18 meeting. Hodge didn’t attend the meeting.

In the letter, Hodge wrote that his relationship with O’Sullivan had become a distraction to the district’s duties.

“This is not an easy decision to make, on my part … I’ve enjoyed working with the Board and staff. However, due to Director O’Sullivan’s ongoing attacks, I feel that it is in the best interest of the district that I resign,” the letter reads. “With my departure hopefully the board will be able to concentrate on business that matters and move forward in a positive direction.”

Hodge thanked the board for the opportunity to serve, and offered his help to the next general manager and to staff in regard to ongoing business.

Since July, O’Sullivan has raised questions about Hodge’s leadership following a management-related employee complaint the board eventually rejected.

Hodge’s resignation is effective Jan. 6.

Neither Hodge nor O’Sullivan could be reached for comment as of press time.